Hidar 19 — November 28

A Special Church for Saint Sergius

Today we remember a happy day long ago. In a city called Rusafa, people opened a beautiful new church to thank God. They named it after two friends who loved Jesus very much, Saint Sergius and Saint Bacchus.

Saint Sergius had kept loving God no matter what, even when it cost him his life, and so we call him a martyr. Kind friends cared for his body, kept it safe, and lit little lamps beside it. When the danger had passed, they built a fine church to honor him.

Fifteen bishops, the leaders who watch over many churches, came together for the day. They blessed the new church, and God did wonderful things there. When Saint Sergius was laid to rest inside, a sweet-smelling oil began to flow from his resting place. The perfume was lovely, and when sick people touched it with faith, God made them well.

A sweet smell still flows from the saint, and to this day God heals those who come with faith.

Getting Ready for Christmas

Today is also the start of a special getting-ready time before we celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. In faraway lands like Rome, Europe, Syria, and Armenia, many Christians begin a fast on this day. To fast is to eat simply and pray more, so your heart is ready for something joyful.

It is a little like tidying your room and wrapping presents before a big party. People do it so their hearts are ready and happy to welcome baby Jesus at Christmas.

Saint Bartholomew the Apostle

Today we remember Saint Bartholomew, one of the twelve apostles who were Jesus' closest helpers. After Jesus went up to heaven, Bartholomew traveled far away to tell people the good news about God.

He went to a place called the Great Oasis, a green spot in the middle of the desert. He worked hard and was kind, and little by little many people came to know and love God because of him.

Bartholomew stayed faithful to Jesus right to the end of his life, and he died a brave martyr. He was not afraid, because he knew God loved him and that he was going home to heaven.

Saint Theophilus and His Brave Family

Now here is a story about a whole family who loved God: a father named Theophilus, his wife Patricia, and their tiny baby boy named Damalis. Theophilus grew up loving God and following Jesus with his whole heart.

A ruler did not want Theophilus to follow Jesus, and he told him to pray to a pretend god made of stone. But Theophilus answered bravely.

Theophilus stayed strong, and God watched over him. When he was shut in prison with no food, God did not forget him. One day the ruler opened the prison door and smelled something sweet, like incense. Inside, Theophilus was sitting happily, and three angels were keeping him company and sharing milk and honey with him. God had sent His angels to care for His friend.

His wife Patricia was brave and full of faith too. When fierce lions were sent toward Theophilus, the lions came close and gently kissed his feet instead, because God was watching over him.

The most surprising part is the baby. Little Damalis was only five months old, far too young to talk. But God opened his mouth and helped him say out loud, 'I believe in the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit!' This whole brave family went home to be with God, and we remember them with love. God is always stronger than anything that tries to scare us.

I will only pray to my Lord Jesus Christ.— Saint Theophilus

I believe in the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.— baby Damalis, only five months old